LEWISBURG — Wild Hearts African Farm celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special ribbon cutting with the help of the Preble County Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, May 4.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of Wild Hearts African Farm – our 10th Anniversary,” Wild Hearts’ Amanda Badger told those in attendance. “As we stand here, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of our farming community, it’s a moment filled with gratitude and reflection.

“The path to this day has been, well, a zoo at times!” she added. “Like many businesses, we’ve encountered our lion’s share of challenges. But through it all, we’ve persisted, fueled by our unwavering passion for conservation, education, and the incredible wildlife we’re privileged to care for. Along the way, we’ve been flooded with all the wonderful and impactful moments that have shaped us. From witnessing the joy on visitors’ faces as they connect with nature to the profound sense of purpose that comes from contributing to wildlife conservation, each experience has been a reminder of why we do what we do.

“Yet, we wouldn’t be standing here today without the steadfast support of our community,” she continued. “Your belief in our mission, your patronage, and your unwavering encouragement have been the bedrock upon which we’ve built Wild Hearts African Farm. Your presence here today is a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose. Thank you for persisting with us.”

Badger shared her gratitude by thanking her husband Brian Badger, her parents, staff and volunteers, Mary Bullen, her board members, sponsors, donors, supporters, and visitors.

“As we cut this ribbon and embark on the next chapter of our journey, let us not forget the importance of community support. It’s more than just financial backing; it’s a lifeline, a source of strength, and a reminder that together, we can overcome any obstacle,” she noted. So, as we celebrate this milestone and reminisce about the incredible moments that have brought us here, let us recommit ourselves to nurturing this bond between Wild Hearts African Farm and our community. Together, let’s continue to cultivate a legacy of conservation, education, and compassion for the wild hearts that call this place home. Thank you, from the bottom of our wild hearts, for being a part of this incredible journey.”

“As a conservationist, I have worked across the globe saving wildlife and have worked to improve the lives of the farmers that share the land with wildlife and their livestock. It always starts with education, and that is what my wife Amanda has been striving to achieve for this last decade through Wild Hearts,” Brian Badger said. “Today is a mark of that success. Thank you for supporting Wild Hearts and Amanda as they enter this next decade of truly making a difference in our community.”

Wild Hearts currently has walk-in hours for visitors, Saturdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about tours by reservation only, Sunday-Friday, visit www.wildheartsafricanfarm.org or call 937-416-5520.

Wild Hearts is located at 7010 Jordan Road, Lewisburg.

Reach Eddie Mowen Jr. at 937-683-4061 and follow on X @emowenjr.